Perry, of course, backed former House Speaker Newt Gingrich as he suspended his own presidential campaign last month. But James, who met with Santorum in Dallas Wednesday to discuss his endorsement, went his own way -- which he seemed to feel an obligation to do, as I reported in this story last month.

James made his move a day after Santorum won primaries and caucuses in Colorado, Minnesota and Missouri.

"He truly is the conservative alternative to Barack Obama," James said, praising Santorum's "supply-side economics for the working man" and stands on social and health care issues. You can read his statement on the jump.

Dallas, Texas--United States Senate candidate Craig James announced today he has endorsed Rick Santorum for President. In a meeting this afternoon in Dallas, James personally discussed his endorsement with Santorum. Immediately after his meeting with Santorum, James released the following statement:

"After Governor Perry ended his presidential campaign, I spent much time carefully considering who I would personally vote for. Of the candidates still standing in the Republican primary, I firmly believe that Rick Santorum is the candidate who will protect and defend our freedom. He truly is the conservative alternative to Barack Obama.

"I completely agree with Rick's assessment of this election: freedom is at stake. We share the same campaign platform: ending Obamacare, defending the Constitution and getting our financial house in order. The Obama Administration has flagrantly trampled on more and more of our freedoms. Rick explained it in his inspiring speech last night: 'When the government gives you rights, unlike when God gives you rights, the government can take them away.'

"The most glaring example of this is the Obama' Administration forcing religion-based healthcare organizations, such as hospitals, to provide contraceptives--even if it violates their religious beliefs. As Rick explained, '...you have a right to health care, but you will have the health care that we tell you.'

"Rick also understands that a job means a strong family. His 'supply-side economics for the working man' plan to get Americans working again is exactly what this country needs. The only way to beat this recession is to get government out of the way and let the small businesses that drive our economy take off.

"Rick actually encouraged me during the time I was contemplating my own run for office. About 18 months ago I met with Rick in Washington, D.C. During our dinner together, we discussed our families and the importance of preserving our religious freedom and strong social values. Rick has a fundamental understanding of the Constitution and the God-given rights recognized in our founding document.

"During that meeting, Rick challenged me. He asked me, 'Do you want to come to Washington to be somebody or do something?' I have never forgotten his poignant question. It exemplifies the true leadership he exhibited during his tenure Washington: public service isn't about ego or about power--it's about humbly fighting on behalf of Americans' freedom every day, regardless of the consequences.

"The surge of grassroots support for Rick and his recent victories have inspired me and my campaign. We face similar obstacles. As Rick pointed out, the candidate with 'the most money and the best organization' doesn't always win and won't necessarily stand up for conservative principles in Washington, D.C. Like their fellow Americans, Texans are yearning for a candidate who will go to Washington, D.C. and shake things up. I am the candidate who will challenge the status quo."